Outrage Over Deportation of Suspect in Historic $100 Million Jewelry Heist
Federal prosecutors in the United States have expressed shock and anger after a suspect in what is believed to be the largest jewelry heist in U.S. history avoided trial because U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported him to South America. This unprecedented move has left victims demanding answers and legal experts questioning coordination between agencies.
Details of the Multi-Million Dollar Robbery
Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores was one of seven individuals charged in connection with a brazen 2022 armored truck robbery north of Los Angeles. According to court documents, the suspects tracked a Brinks truck to a rural freeway rest stop, where they stole millions of dollars worth of diamonds, emeralds, gold, rubies, and designer watches. While victims reported losses exceeding $100 million, Brinks estimated the stolen items' value at under $10 million.
The indictment reveals that the heist occurred in July 2022 after the group surveilled the truck leaving an international jewelry show near San Francisco. A lawsuit filed by Brinks stated that one driver was asleep inside the vehicle, and another was purchasing food when the thieves broke in.
Legal Proceedings and Unexpected Deportation
Flores, who pleaded not guilty, faced up to 15 years in federal prison if convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit theft from interstate and foreign shipment. Despite being a lawful permanent resident released on bail, he was taken into ICE custody in September, unbeknownst to federal prosecutors.
In a surprising turn of events, Flores requested voluntary departure during a December 16 immigration hearing. Although the judge denied this application, a final order of removal was issued, and he was deported to Ecuador in late December. His attorney, John D. Robertson, subsequently moved to dismiss the indictment, arguing that the deportation violated his client's criminal prosecution rights.
Prosecution's Response and Victims' Frustration
Federal prosecutors have opposed the motion to dismiss, seeking to drop charges "without prejudice" to allow for future prosecution if Flores returns to the U.S. They emphasized that they were unaware of the immigration detainer and followed protocol by allowing the civil immigration process to proceed independently.
Former federal prosecutor Laurie Levenson described the situation as "extremely unusual," especially for a case of this magnitude. She noted that typically, immigration officials would inform prosecutors of such proceedings, highlighting a significant lack of communication between agencies.
Victims of the heist, including jewelry companies represented by attorney Jerry Kroll, have voiced their frustration. Kroll told the Los Angeles Times that when a defendant in a major federal theft case leaves the country before trial, victims are left without answers, a verdict, or closure.
Broader Implications for Criminal Justice
This case raises critical questions about the intersection of immigration enforcement and criminal prosecution. Legal experts point out that while self-deportation may occur in minor cases, it is rare in high-profile investigations like this one. The incident underscores potential gaps in inter-agency coordination that could impact the pursuit of justice.
As the legal battle continues, prosecutors remain hopeful of bringing Flores to trial if he ever re-enters the United States. However, for now, the deportation has effectively stalled one of the most significant jewelry heist cases in American history, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and unresolved grievances.
